Greek Myths XS: Poseidon (Neptune) vs Polybotes

When the Olympian gods took over power from the previous generation, they had to fight not only the titans, but the giants as well, earth mother Gaia’s most beloved children. She created them with the sole purpose of vanquishing the Olympians from the face of her earth. The “gigantomachy” (or “giant-wars”) went on for centuries, and every Olympian had his own opponent to put up with. Ocean god Poseidon was challenged by monstrous Polybotes, and their heroic clashes have been depicted on vase paintings, fresco’s and mosaics. In the end, Poseidon got the upper hand, and he pursued the giant all through the known world, for a last stand on the island of Kos. Determined to finish it once and for all, Poseidon broke off a giant rock and threw it onto the giant, effectively burying him alive. And creating the island of Nisyros in the process. To this day, you can hear the giant, moaning and groaning, and his periodical tantrums are still felt and heard. Some would say this is due to volcanic activity, but the Greeks knews better.

Poseidon and Polybotes, amphora, Musée du Louvre, Paris, France

Poseidon with Nisyros on his shoulder, cup, Cabinet des Médailles, Paris, France

Did you know?

• About the clashes between titans, giants and Olympians: “Nerve Racking”, “The Weight of the World”, “Cheating Mother Nature”; “The Deer Hunters”, “Holy Moly”, “Moving Mountains”.

• The Nisyros volcanic complex experienced its last eruption in 1888.